The Strike: The Start of The Actors' Equity Association

Although the rationalization of the theatre may have increased
business for the front office, the working conditions for actors
did not improve. Managers and producers were less likely to be actors
who understood the daily working of the theatre. These businessmen
made demands including unlimited rehearsal time with no pay, half pay
during holiday weeks, a two week clause that allowed firing of actors
with almost total discretion, actors paying for their transportation to
performance locations, and often paying for their own costumes.
These conditions helped to rally the actors to fight together. Many
attempts were made, but it was not until May 26, 1913 that a functional
group was formed--the Actors' Equity Assocation.

Because of a clause in the American Federation of Labor, however,
Equity was not fully recognized until 1919. Shortly after it was
recognized, the organization was able to stage a strike which "lasted
for thirty days, spread to eight cities, resulted in the closing of
thirty-seven plays, prevented the opening of sixteen others and cost
all concerned in the neighborhood of three million dollars," as
historian Alfred Bernheim stated. The result was a complete victory
for the Actors' Equity. The actors had learned that the best way to
bet a corporation was to become one yourself.

by Abby Manzella, American Studies at the University of Virginia, December 2000